By Fanuel Chinowaita
MUTARE – Zimbabwe’s transport sector is set for a major revival next month, with both Air Zimbabwe and the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) introducing passenger services between Harare and Mutare to boost connectivity ahead of the Sanganai/Kumbanai World Tourism Expo.
Air Zimbabwe will deploy an ATR 42 Dash 500 aircraft on the route, with demonstration flights scheduled for September 7 before official operations run daily from September 8 to 14 to coincide with the tourism showcase. The aircraft arrives in the country on September 7.
Yesterday, Chief executive officer, Engineer Edmund Makona, said the initiative was more than just a temporary measure for the expo but a stepping stone to a broader expansion strategy.
“This operation is a pilot project. We are testing the market, understanding demand, and exploring the long-term viability of this route. Beyond Mutare, our vision is to connect the city with Victoria Falls, Beira, Kariba and Buffalo Range in Masvingo,” Makona said.
He stressed that safety had been a key consideration. “We engaged the manufacturer of the ATR and confirmed it is the right aircraft for Grand Reef aerodrome . All the necessary safety standards have been cleared with the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ),” he said.
The airline has partnered with PayNow to allow passengers to book tickets online and worked closely with Airports Company of Zimbabwe, National Handling Services and the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority to ensure smooth operations.
Contractor Mr. Shadowlit Sidija Ndou of The Gap Company and Engineer Edmond Chinyadza of Airports Company of Zimbabwe led the aerodrome development, while CAAZ Director General Mr. George Mashababe oversaw aviation compliance.
Meanwhile, the NRZ is also preparing to reintroduce passenger trains on the Harare–Mutare line, which last ran in 2019. Mutare Station Manager, Mr. Farai Zimhunga, said coaches are currently being refurbished at NRZ headquarters in Bulawayo.
“The train will depart Harare at 1930 so that it arrives in Mutare in good time. The refurbished coaches will be branded for the Sanganai/Hlanganani Expo and offer modernised features for passenger comfort,” Zimhunga said.
Industry players say the dual revival of rail and air transport is expected to ease travel for exhibitors and delegates attending the expo, while creating long-term benefits for tourism, business and trade in the Eastern Highlands.
The 2025 edition of the Sanganai/Kumbanai World Travel Expo will run from September 10 to 12 in Mutare, marking the first time the premier tourism showcase is hosted in the region.